Interview: Eddie Tisdale Takes Over At University

Changes blew swiftly through the halls of University School on Wednesday afternoon. Just hours after legendary Manager Rich Hofman stepped down at University to pursue other opportunities, Hofman’s assistant Eddie Tisdale was given the top position by Athletic Director Paul Herfurth.

Tisdale arrived at University School in 2011. Prior to becoming a Suns assistant, Tisdale spent a couple of years in Independent ball with the Lake Erie Crushers. Out of high school, Tisdale signed and played at nationally ranked Winthrop University. While at Winthrop, Tisdale amassed an impressive resume, becoming second team all-conference in 2008, and first team all-conference in 2009. While at Winthrop, Tisdale also broke several school records, including most career put-outs, highest fielding percentage, most hits in a game. he also ranks second all-time on the teams hits and games played list.

While coaching at University, Tisdale has drawn high marks from Coach Hofman and several other coaches around the county. Shortly after accepting the manager position at University Wednesday, Tisdale sat down with BHSB Senior Editor Anthony Uttariello to discuss the transition from assistant to manager, following a legend, and the expectations for this year’s Suns squad.

Anthony: What was your reaction when you found out Coach Hofman was stepping down?

Coach Tisdale: It came as somewhat of a surprise. Spending the last two years with Rich has shown me the unrivaled passion that he has for the game and teaching the game. That’s really the biggest thing I admired. His love for teaching the game makes him the best in the business.

Anthony: Taking over the program keeps some consistency going into this year, with you being an assistant at University the past couple of years. How much will that help the transition?

Coach Tisdale: It makes for a smooth transition. I have been around these players almost everyday for the last two years. They know my coaching style, and I know their playing style. Now it is just a matter of going out everyday with the willingness to do what it takes to make ourselves better.

Anthony: You’ve been around Coach Hofman for several years, how much of his system will you keep in place for this season, and what changes do you think you will make?

Coach Tisdale: I don’t think there is anyone out there that would argue against me if I were to say, “Coach Hofman is the best teacher of the game I have ever known.”

Over the last two years I have learned more about the game than most coaches do in a career. These players know the system. I would be a fool if I tried to make wholesale changes. However, having said that, there will be some new things we will try. I am a hitting guy after all. I think we may see a larger emphasis put onto the offensive side of things.

Anthony: All of your players are familiar with you, but things change when you go from assistant to manager. What kinds of preparations are you making for that change?

Coach Tisdale: With the increased responsibility comes a new attitude. I have a respect for my players and coaches. I owe it to them to be at my best at all times.I will hold them accountable for their actions on and off the field, and I will hold myself accountable as well.

Anthony: What are your expectations for this season?

Coach Tisdale:

This season will be an exciting one. If you look at our district, it is going to be tough. My only expectations are that our players come out everyday with a good attitude and work ethic. I expect them to give their all from the first pitch to the last. I expect us to battle and compete. If we can do that, I will be happy.

Anthony: What assistants will be staying on with you for the Spring, and do you have plans to bring in anyone new?

Coach Tisdale: I am working in close proximity with Paul Herfurth, our athletic director to complete the coaching staff. We plan to announce the remainder of our coaching staff within the next week.

Anthony: You just watched University School win a state title in football. How much does that fuel the desire to win one in baseball as well?

Coach Tisdale: Coach Harriott and our football team accomplished something truly
special. I know as a fan, it was fun to watch! As a coach it is always inspiring when you see a team come together and win a championship. I like my players to set goals as individuals and as a team, and seeing the football team’s success certainly helped our players set their sights on something big.

Anthony: Finish this sentence. Our season will be successful if…

Coach Tisdale: We can find the importance in every detail. If we can practice at a high level everyday, and take that fire into our games, it will pay off for us.

Anthony: Congratulations to you and good luck this season.

Coach Tisdale: Thank You.

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